Are foreigners allowed to buy/own real estate in UK, US and Canada for investment purposes? What would be a good place to look for such info?
Thanks.
Re: Buying real estate
In US you can buy anything on cash, well as long as it’s not a port and you aren’t from UAE. But if you are going to get a mortgage, it depends – on amount, job situation, Credit Score etc.
Re: Buying real estate
Yes. Foreigners are allowed to buy real estate in Canada.
The only stipulation is that you must put a certain amount of downpayment as a minimum. I believe in Ontario, Canada that minimum is 25%.
Please double-check the figure.
Where such information is available publicly? I don't know for sure. I'll ask around and see if I can find someone to confirm.
Re: Buying real estate
^ The information is available at CMHC
Re: Buying real estate
Thanks guys!
ahmadjee, is the process really that simple and straight forward? I would expect it to be a lot more hassle given the current terrorism concerns. Lets say someone visits US on a business visa, buys real estate and goes back home. Next time he applies for a visa, Uncle Sam refuses (mood swing), what happens to the property then?
Muzna, same question to you too.
What about UK?
Re: Buying real estate
Are you serious? Why are people from the UAE excluded? I would have assumed that it’s a list of countries, but just the UAE? 
Re: Buying real estate
Yes you can. I'd find a lawyer familiar with laws in the US/UK/Europe where ever you want to go and your country. also keep in mind in the US you may have more questions b/c of homeland security...
Re: Buying real estate
^ Umer he meant it scarastic, u know the port deal that was canceled due to US politics.
Re: Buying real estate
I'll offer you $9 for a house. Its all I have.
Re: Buying real estate
Oops. Didn't know about that deal.
Anyway: Good to see you back on GS Saadia. How's the baby? :)
Re: Buying real estate
Its fine. 
Re: Buying real estate
I have a number of friends who bought their properties on Green Card, two of them are buying it next month. And a couple that bought being on H1 visa, or somewhere in the middle of H1 and green card.
In case of Uncle Sam’s mood swing, the property is still yours; you can sell it through an agent or rent it through one too. That’s how rich people have vacation condos in every other country.
Re: Buying real estate
a-jee, one needs to be a resident alien, i think. cant buy a house in the US when you dont live in the country. or maybe i'm mistaken.